ferry Regina Baltica Balearia
ferry Regina Baltica
âš“ The Regina Baltica is one of the highest-capacity ferries in the Baleària fleet, with room for 1,675 passengers and more than 1,000 cabin beds. She works mainly the Valencia–Mostaganem route (Algeria), covering the roughly 220 nautical miles between Spain and North Africa in about 14–15 hours. She is a Ro-Pax cruise ferry built for long overnight crossings, with a broad choice of cabins, two classes of seat and a prayer room on board.
The ship was built in 1980 at the Wärtsilä Perno yard (Turku, Finland) for Rederi Ab Sally, and spent her early years as the Viking Song on the Helsinki–Stockholm route for Viking Line. Over her working life she has sailed under several names — Viking Song, Braemar, Anna Karenina, Regina Baltica — and for a string of operators including Fred. Olsen Lines, the Baltic Shipping Company and Tallink, before joining the Baleària fleet in February 2017.
Bringing her into the fleet meant an investment of €15 million, covering both the purchase and a full refit carried out in the ports of Vigo and Viana do Castelo (Portugal): an overhaul of the main engines, refurbished cabins, two new seating lounges and a complete modernisation of the public areas (restaurants, reception and leisure spaces). Since 2017 she has sailed under the Cypriot flag and is registered in Limassol.
An old hand at sea with a rich European history
The Regina Baltica is a ship with more than four decades of history behind her in the Mediterranean and the Baltic. She has carried her present name since 1996, when EstLine bought her for the Tallinn–Stockholm route. Before joining Baleària, she spent several years as a floating hotel on offshore projects in the North Sea (Bard Offshore 1, Germany) and in the Shetland Islands (Scotland), as well as spells in the Mediterranean with Acciona Trasmediterránea on the Almería–Nador route.
Her sister ship in the series is the Sally Albatross, with which she shares both a yard design and a build year.
History and background of the ship
The Regina Baltica was built in 1980 at the Wärtsilä Perno yard in Turku (Finland) as the Viking Song for Rederi Ab Sally, working the Helsinki–Stockholm route under the Viking Line flag. In 1985 she was sold to Fred. Olsen Lines, converted in Hamburg and renamed Braemar for the Oslo–Harwich routes. After Fred. Olsen ceased operations in 1990, she was chartered to the Russian army as the Anna Karenina to move troops out of the former East Germany, and was badly damaged in the process.
In 1996 EstLine bought her and gave her the permanent name Regina Baltica for the Tallinn–Stockholm route; she later passed to Tallink, for whom she worked various Baltic routes until 2009. Between 2009 and 2011 she was chartered three times by Acciona Trasmediterránea on the Almería–Nador and Algeciras–Tangier routes, her first taste of the southern Mediterranean. From 2012 to 2017 she served as a floating hotel on offshore construction projects in the United Kingdom, Germany and the Shetland Islands.
In 2017 she was bought by Baleària, which put her on its routes to Algeria — specifically the Valencia–Mostaganem link — one of the fastest-growing corridors in the western Mediterranean and one that matters a great deal to the Algerian community living in Spain. With her large passenger capacity and generous provision of cabins and social spaces, the Regina Baltica has become Baleària's mainstay ship on this corridor.
Full technical specifications
| Ship type | Ro-Pax cruise ferry |
| Length overall | 145.19 m |
| Beam | 25.51 m |
| Maximum draught | 5.52 m |
| Gross tonnage | 18,345 GT |
| Deadweight | 2,830 t |
| Service speed | 19 knots |
| Passenger capacity | 1,675 people |
| Vehicle capacity | 350 cars (936 lane metres of rolling freight) |
| Cabins | 505 cabins · 1,250 berths |
| Propulsion | 4 × Pielstick 12 PC2SV engines · 19,480 kW in total |
| Fuel | Marine diesel oil (MDO) |
| Shipyard | Wärtsilä Perno (Turku, Finland) |
| Year built | 1980 |
| Last major refit | 2015 / 2017 (joining Baleària) |
| Joined Baleària | February 2017 |
| Flag | Cyprus (Limassol, since 2017) |
| IMO number | 7827225 |
| Acquisition investment | €15 million |
| Sister ship | Sally Albatross |
| Former names | Viking Song · Braemar · Anna Karenina · Regina Baltica (since 1996) |
Routes operated and indicative timetables
| Route | Duration | Usual departure* |
|---|---|---|
| Valencia → Mostaganem (Algeria) | ~14–15 h | ~18:00 |
| Mostaganem (Algeria) → Valencia | ~14–15 h | ~18:30 |
| Sète (France) → Nador (Morocco) | ~35 h | Seasonal / on request |
| Nador (Morocco) → Sète (France) | ~35 h | Seasonal / on request |
* Indicative timetables, subject to season and availability. In high season (summer) Baleària may run up to 3 sailings a week on the Valencia–Mostaganem route. Confirm the exact timetable in our search engine.
The ports of Valencia and Mostaganem: what you need to know
The Regina Baltica sails from the Port of Valencia on Spain's east coast, which has excellent motorway (AP-7, A-3) and rail links. The ferry terminal has a café, waiting areas, car parking and direct vehicle access. If you are travelling in summer (during the Operación Paso del Estrecho, the July–August crossing operation), allow extra time: demand on the routes to Algeria and Morocco is very high.
The Port of Mostaganem lies on the north-west coast of Algeria, roughly 350 km east of Oran. The town's railway station is about a 20-minute walk from the arrivals terminal, which makes onward travel inland straightforward. The sea distance between Valencia and Mostaganem is around 220 nautical miles.
If you are travelling with a vehicle you do not own, you will have to show the Algerian customs authorities the original vehicle registration document and a notarised letter of authorisation signed by the owner and the driver. It is worth checking the full documentation requirements well in advance.
Fares, discounts and how to book
A Sirena seat (standard) on the Valencia–Mostaganem route starts at roughly €105 each way in low season. Travelling with a car starts at €205 each way. A return trip for a family of four with a car and a cabin starts at €135 each way when offers are running. Prices rise appreciably in July and August (during the Operación Paso del Estrecho), so it is worth booking as far ahead as you possibly can.
Available discounts:
- Baleària Club: the operator's points scheme. Collect points on every trip and redeem them against discounts and rewards on future bookings.
- Tarjeta Joven (youth card): discount for passengers up to the age of 30. Check availability when you book.
- Children: under-12s get a discount on the ticket price.
- Booking early: the lowest prices come from booking months ahead. In July and August places sell out fast.
You can compare prices and real-time availability directly on I Love Ferry.
Which accommodation should you choose for your trip?
| If you are travelling... | Recommended accommodation |
|---|---|
| Alone, looking for the lowest price | Sirena seat |
| Looking for more comfort and quiet (especially overnight) | Neptuno seat |
| As a couple, or wanting privacy and a proper rest | Two-berth cabin (inside or outside) |
| With family or in a group of four | Four-berth cabin |
| With reduced mobility | Adapted accessible cabin |
| With a pet | Pet-friendly seat or cabin (book in advance) |
ferry Regina Baltica · Accommodations
Sirena seat · Standard
The cheapest option on board. Reclining seats in a shared lounge with televisions and access to every area of the ship. Ideal for travellers who put price first on shorter and mid-length crossings.
✓ Reclining seat in a shared lounge
✓ Television in the shared area
✓ Air conditioning
✓ Access to every area of the ship
Neptuno seat · Reserved lounge
A step up from the Sirena. The Neptune Lounge is a reserved-access space with fully reclining leather Pullman seats, large televisions and a drink included (tea, coffee or a soft drink). The best option if you would rather not book a cabin but want more comfort and quiet on an overnight crossing.
✓ Reserved-access lounge
✓ Fully reclining Pullman seat
✓ Large televisions
✓ Drink included (tea, coffee or a soft drink)
Two-berth cabin · Inside and outside
A private cabin for 2 people, available in inside and outside (window) versions. Every cabin has a full private bathroom with shower, bed linen, towels and toiletries. The ideal choice for couples, or for anyone after privacy and a proper night's rest on a 14–15 hour overnight crossing.
✓ Private cabin for 2 people
✓ Full private bathroom with shower
✓ Bed linen, towels and toiletries included
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Outside version with window available
Four-berth cabin · Families and groups
A private cabin for up to 4 people, available in inside and outside versions. Fitted out like the two-berth cabin, with 4 berths and a full private bathroom. The best option for families and small groups who want to rest together during the overnight crossing.
✓ Private cabin for up to 4 people
✓ Full private bathroom with shower
✓ Bed linen, towels and toiletries included
✓ Individually controlled air conditioning
✓ Outside version with window available
Adapted accessible cabin · Reduced mobility
The Regina Baltica has cabins specially adapted for passengers with reduced mobility, with more room to manoeuvre, accessible entrances and a position on the ship chosen to make moving about on board easier. We recommend booking in advance, as the number of places is limited.
✓ More space and accessible entrances
✓ Adapted private bathroom
✓ Well-placed location on the ship
✓ Advance booking essential
ferry Regina Baltica · On-board services
Restaurant, cafés and food on board
The Regina Baltica has two main places to eat: a self-service restaurant and an à la carte restaurant with a range of menus to suit every taste. There are also two indoor bar-cafés where you will find all kinds of hot and cold drinks, snacks and everyday essentials throughout the crossing.
On the routes to Algeria (Valencia–Mostaganem), the food on offer is tailored to a largely North African clientele, with halal menus and products prepared for the journey.
Onboard shop
The ship has an onboard shop where you can pick up snacks, sweets, nibbles, everyday essentials, perfume and gifts during the crossing.
Travelling with a dog on board
Accessibility — passengers with reduced mobility
The Regina Baltica has cabins adapted for passengers with reduced mobility, with more room to manoeuvre, accessible entrances and a position on the ship chosen to make moving between decks easier. Anyone needing special assistance should say so when booking and go to the ship's information desk as soon as they board. We recommend booking an adapted cabin as far ahead as possible, as the number of accessible places is limited.
Prayer room
The Regina Baltica has a dedicated prayer room on board, open to any passenger who wishes to use it. It is a service that is particularly appreciated on the routes to Algeria and Morocco.
Magazine and entertainment on board
During the crossing, passengers can enjoy Entreolas by Baleària, a free onboard magazine covering travel, lifestyle, culture, food and news from the operator. The ship also has televisions in the shared lounges showing programmes throughout the journey.
Bicycles and special vehicles
Every Baleària ship, the Regina Baltica included, has dedicated space for bicycles. Bicycles, mopeds and motorbikes up to 125 cc are carried free of charge but must be declared when you book. Special vehicles over 3 metres tall have to be booked through the Baleària call centre (902 160 180).
Frequently asked questions about the Regina Baltica
Which routes does the Regina Baltica ferry operate?
She works mainly the Valencia–Mostaganem (Algeria) route all year round, with at least one sailing a week in winter and up to three a week in summer. She has also covered the Sète (France)–Nador (Morocco) route during the summer season.
How long does the ferry from Valencia to Mostaganem take?
The crossing takes roughly 14–15 hours, depending on the state of the sea. It is an overnight crossing: the ferry usually leaves around 18:00 and arrives at dawn the following day.
Does the Regina Baltica carry cars?
Yes. She has room for 350 vehicles (936 lane metres of rolling freight). If you are travelling by car, arrive at the harbour at least 90 minutes beforehand. In high season (July and August) allow more.
What is the difference between the Sirena seat and the Neptuno seat?
The Sirena seat is the standard option, in a shared lounge. The Neptuno seat (Neptune Lounge) is a reserved-access lounge with fully reclining leather Pullman seats, large televisions and a drink included. It is the best alternative to a cabin on an overnight crossing.
What accommodation does the Regina Baltica offer?
Five types: the Sirena seat (standard), the Neptuno seat (reserved lounge with a drink included), a two-berth cabin (inside or outside), a four-berth cabin (inside or outside) and an adapted accessible cabin. Every cabin comes with a private bathroom, bed linen and towels.
How much does it cost to travel on the Regina Baltica?
A Sirena seat starts at €105 each way in low season. Travelling with a car costs from €205. Prices rise in July and August. Compare real-time prices here.
Is there WiFi on board?
The Regina Baltica has internet access on board, although there may be an extra charge. Check the current conditions when you book.
Are pets allowed on the Regina Baltica?
Yes. There are two sizes of kennel (small for animals up to 30 kg and large for those over 30 kg). You may also bring your own carrier. You must book a pet place when you buy your ticket and show valid health documentation.
Is she accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. She has adapted accessible cabins with more space and accessible entrances. Places are limited, so we recommend booking in advance. Say that you need assistance when you book.
Is there a prayer room on board?
Yes. The Regina Baltica has a dedicated prayer room on board, open to any passenger who wishes to use it. It is one of the most valued services on the routes to Algeria and Morocco.
What paperwork do I need to travel to Algeria?
You need a valid passport. If you are taking a car registered to someone else, you must show the original vehicle registration document and a notarised letter of authorisation signed by the owner and the driver. Check visa requirements with the Algerian consulate before you travel.
When did the Regina Baltica join Baleària?
She joined the fleet in February 2017 after a €15 million investment in buying her and giving her a full refit: new seating lounges, refurbished cabins and modernised public areas.
How early should I get to the harbour?
By car: at least 90 minutes before departure. As a foot passenger, 45–60 minutes is enough. In July and August (during the Operación Paso del Estrecho) allow extra time, as demand is very high.
How many sailings a week are there between Valencia and Mostaganem?
In winter there is at least one sailing a week (usually on Wednesdays or Saturdays from Valencia). In summer, Baleària steps the route up to as many as 3 sailings a week. Check the exact calendar in our real-time search engine.
